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Graeter's scoops up support for pediatric cancer research in annual campaign

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September 3, 2024

Graeter's Ice Cream, a family-owned company with a 154-year history, is partnering with The Cure Starts Now for the 16th consecutive year to raise funds for pediatric cancer research, according to a press release.

The campaign, called Cones for The Cure, centers around The Cure Starts Now's mission to find a "Homerun Cure" for childhood brain cancer. It offers ice cream lovers a chance to indulge in a sweet treat while supporting a worthy cause.

Since 2009, Graeter's has raised more than $1.9 million for pediatric cancer research through Cones for The Cure. Last year, a customer surprised everyone with a $10,000 donation, marking the first-ever "platinum scoop" contribution. This year, Graeter's aims to surpass the $2 million mark.

From Sept. 5 to 15, Graeter's Rewards members can enjoy a free single dip of Elena's Blueberry Pie ice cream in a sugar cone through the app at any Graeter's location. All customers can donate in stores or online at conesforthecure.org.

New additions to this year's campaign include limited-edition ice cream pies featuring Elena's Blueberry Pie ice cream and special "Bones for the Cure" Bark'n Blueberry dog treats. The dog treats will be available during the Dog's Night Out event on Sept. 5th. Both pies and treats will be sold while supplies last at all Graeter's scoop shops, with a portion of proceeds benefiting Cones for The Cure.

"Every year we create our signature Elena's Blueberry Pie ice cream as a limited time offer for this special partnership," Chip Graeter, fourth generation co-owner of Graeter's, said in the press release. "Since we first partnered with The Cure Starts Now back in 2009, we have released this flavor in efforts to raise funds to find the Homerun Cure™ for pediatric brain cancer. We're eager to see everyone in our scoop shops enjoy some delicious ice cream and support these children and families."

Keith Desserich, co-founder and Chairman of the Board at The Cure Starts Now, said the partnership demonstrates the power of teamwork. "This partnership highlights the value of teamwork and the dollars raised are making an amazing impact," Desserich said in the press release. "This year, we'll reach and exceed $2 million in donations from Graeter's Ice Cream. Graeter's has been a fundamental partner and we are so appreciative of their entire organization and the support they put behind Cones For The Cure."

Graeter's has 56 retails stores and ships more than 300,000 pints annually. The brand can also be found in more than 3,000 grocery stores in 46 states.